Thirty members of the Durban University of Technology (DUT) community, comprising staff, students and alumni, are gearing up to take on one of the world’s most iconic ultramarathons, the 2026 Comrades Marathon, on Sunday, 14 June 2026. The race will be an Up Run from Durban to Pietermaritzburg and is expected to cover approximately 85.8 km.
The DUT runners’ participation highlights the institution’s commitment to promoting health, wellness and an active lifestyle among its community members. The 2026 race will be held under the slogan “Ska Fela Moya” (Don’t Give Up), reflecting the resilience and endurance required to complete the demanding race from Durban to Pietermaritzburg.
Amongst the 30 DUT athletes are two members of executive management, the Interim Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Mr Siboniso Shabalala and the Director of the DUT Business School, Professor Pfano Mashau. In addition to the two executives, there are 11 other staff members who will be running namely, Mr Lindokuhle Manyoni, Mr Wesley Ngcobo, Mr Liam Rehman, Ms Nobahle Mncube, Mr Lubabalo Mbangata, Dr Lauren Hillerman, Mr Nkeka Tseole, Dr Mthobisi Ntuli, Mr Lungelo Zulu, Ms Colleen Lotz and Mr Naeem Sacoor. Seven students, Mr Ngceba Kenisa, Ms Nqobile Mngadi, Mr Katlego Molemisi, Mr Lwando Mavana, Mr Njabulo Bhengu, Ms Nonhlanhla Siyaya and Ms Ephania Kwashirayi. Ten alumni consists of Mr Steven Mkhize, Mr Khayelihle Ngubane, Mr Nathi Mhlongo, Mr Collin Makhubu, Ms Yenzi Olifant, Mr Nathi Tonie Mhlongo, Mr Bandile Ndaba, Ms Dudu Ditlhale, Ms Zimasa Mngceke and Mr Craig Dennill.
Some of the DUT runners during their Comrades Marathon training.
The DUT athletes listed above include seasoned Comrades runners aiming to add another medal to their collection, as well as first-time participants who have spent months preparing physically and mentally for the challenge ahead. Their stories reflect dedication, sacrifice and the pursuit of excellence in their personal and athletic goals.
Mr Lindokuhle Manyoni, Road Running Coordinator and PhD candidate in Chemical Engineering at DUT said DUT’s participation in the Comrades Marathon also showcases the university’s vibrant sporting culture and the strong sense of community that exists among its staff, students and alumni. He expressed pride in the team’s preparation and commitment.
“As both the Road Running Coordinator and a participant, I am excited to share this journey with our runners. We are not only representing ourselves but also the broader DUT community. We hope our participation inspires others to embrace healthy lifestyles, challenge themselves and pursue goals that may seem impossible at first,” shared Lindokuhle.
Wishing the runners well was DUT Sports Officer, Mr Yandisa Mdolomba who said: “We wish all our runners a safe and successful race and encourage them to enjoy every moment of this incredible experience. Crossing the finish line in Pietermaritzburg will be a celebration of months of hard work, determination and the unwavering DUT spirit.”
He further expressed his confidence in the diversity of experience within the team, commending the seasoned Comrades runners who are mentoring first-time participants, for creating a strong sense of camaraderie and support. He believes this embodies the DUT spirit of excellence, teamwork and perseverance.”
As the DUT athletes prepare to line up at the start in Durban, the university community will be rallying behind them, wishing them success as they undertake the historic race. Their participation serves as an inspiration to current staff and students, proving that with commitment, determination and hard work, even the most demanding goals can be achieved.
DUT wishes all 30 runners a safe and successful race and looks forward to celebrating their achievements with them along the route and the finish line in Pietermaritzburg.
Pictured: DUT runners during last year’s Comrades Marathon send off luncheon.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini.
Simangele Zuma
